The 1987 Toyota Tercel, part of the third generation (1986-1990), was a popular subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and Toyota's legendary reliability. Available in sedan and hatchback body styles, key trims included the economical DLX and the slightly more appointed SR5. New pricing typically ranged from $6,000 to $9,000. It stood out for its no-nonsense approach to transportation, offering dependability at an affordable price point, making it a favorite for budget-conscious buyers and first-time car owners.
The Good
The 1987 Tercel shines with exceptional fuel economy, unwavering reliability that brings peace of mind, and a surprisingly practical interior. Its straightforward design appeals to those seeking a no-fuss, dependable daily driver, while its low running costs offer significant value, making it an emotionally comforting and practically sound choice.
The Bad
When considering a 1987 Tercel, watch out for rust, particularly on the chassis and wheel wells, which is common for cars of this era. Other potential issues include aging suspension components, exhaust system wear, and occasional electrical gremlins. Automatic transmission issues can also arise with higher mileage.
1987 Toyota Tercel: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1987 Toyota Tercel primarily featured a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.
- Horsepower: This engine typically produced around 70-78 horsepower, depending on the specific configuration and emissions controls for the market.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency was a major selling point. Expect estimates in the range of 30-35 MPG in the city and 35-40 MPG on the highway, making it very economical for daily driving.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration was not the Tercel's strong suit. Expect 0-60 mph times to be in the 13-15 second range, which is typical for subcompact cars of this vintage focused on economy.
- Towing Capacity: The Toyota Tercel was not designed for towing. It does not have a specified towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DLX (Deluxe): This was the base trim, offering essential features for cost-conscious buyers. It typically included vinyl or cloth seats, a basic AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks, and steel wheels with hubcaps. Air conditioning and power steering were often optional.
- SR5 (Sport Rally 5-speed): The SR5 trim offered a slightly sportier appearance and more amenities. It might have included upgraded cloth upholstery, a more robust stereo system, a tachometer, rear window defroster, and potentially alloy wheels. Some SR5 models could also be found with a power sunroof as an option.
- Common Features Across Trims (Optional or Standard):
- 5-speed manual transmission (standard on many models)
- 3-speed automatic transmission (optional)
- Power steering (optional)
- Air conditioning (optional)
- Tilt steering wheel (optional)
- Intermittent windshield wipers
- Rear seat pass-through for larger cargo
- Optional rear spoiler (on hatchback models)
1987 Toyota Tercel Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1987 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Tercel |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3A-C |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1987 Toyota Tercel Have?
The 1987 Toyota Tercel is generally lauded for its long-term reliability, a hallmark of Toyota vehicles from this era. However, like any car, it is not immune to common issues that arise with age and mileage. The most frequently reported problems tend to be related to wear and tear rather than inherent design flaws.
Rust: This is arguably the most significant concern for a 1987 Tercel. Due to the materials used and exposure to road salt and moisture, rust can develop in critical areas like the floor pans, rocker panels, wheel wells, and suspension components. Heavily rusted examples can compromise structural integrity and become costly to repair.
Suspension and Steering: Over time, components like ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and struts will wear out, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and imprecise steering. These are typically maintenance items that need replacement as they age.
Exhaust System: Exhaust components such as the muffler, catalytic converter, and pipes are susceptible to rust and eventual failure, leading to noise and potential emissions issues.
Cooling System: Radiators, hoses, and water pumps can degrade over time, leading to leaks and potential overheating. Regular coolant flushes and inspections are important.
Electrical Issues: While generally robust, some older Tercels might experience minor electrical gremlins. This could include issues with the alternator, starter, dashboard lights, or power window motors, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. The fuel pump can also be a point of failure.
Automatic Transmission: While manual transmissions are typically very durable, some automatic transmissions in higher-mileage Tercels might start to exhibit slipping or delayed shifting. Regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity.
Recalls: Specific recalls for the 1987 model year are not widely publicized as major widespread issues, which is a testament to its overall solid engineering. Owners should always check with the NHTSA website for any potential outstanding recalls for their specific vehicle identification number.
Long-Term Reliability: The fundamental powertrain and chassis of the 1987 Tercel are known to be extremely durable if maintained properly. Many owners have reported reaching well over 200,000 miles, and even 300,000 miles, with basic maintenance and timely repairs. The mechanical simplicity of the car contributes to its longevity, making parts generally available and repairs manageable.
Rust: This is arguably the most significant concern for a 1987 Tercel. Due to the materials used and exposure to road salt and moisture, rust can develop in critical areas like the floor pans, rocker panels, wheel wells, and suspension components. Heavily rusted examples can compromise structural integrity and become costly to repair.
Suspension and Steering: Over time, components like ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and struts will wear out, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and imprecise steering. These are typically maintenance items that need replacement as they age.
Exhaust System: Exhaust components such as the muffler, catalytic converter, and pipes are susceptible to rust and eventual failure, leading to noise and potential emissions issues.
Cooling System: Radiators, hoses, and water pumps can degrade over time, leading to leaks and potential overheating. Regular coolant flushes and inspections are important.
Electrical Issues: While generally robust, some older Tercels might experience minor electrical gremlins. This could include issues with the alternator, starter, dashboard lights, or power window motors, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. The fuel pump can also be a point of failure.
Automatic Transmission: While manual transmissions are typically very durable, some automatic transmissions in higher-mileage Tercels might start to exhibit slipping or delayed shifting. Regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity.
Recalls: Specific recalls for the 1987 model year are not widely publicized as major widespread issues, which is a testament to its overall solid engineering. Owners should always check with the NHTSA website for any potential outstanding recalls for their specific vehicle identification number.
Long-Term Reliability: The fundamental powertrain and chassis of the 1987 Tercel are known to be extremely durable if maintained properly. Many owners have reported reaching well over 200,000 miles, and even 300,000 miles, with basic maintenance and timely repairs. The mechanical simplicity of the car contributes to its longevity, making parts generally available and repairs manageable.
How long will the 1987 Toyota Tercel last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a 1987 Toyota Tercel can realistically be expected to serve for 250,000 to 350,000 miles or more. Many examples have surpassed 300,000 miles with consistent, albeit basic, maintenance. The car's long-term durability is a direct result of its robust powertrain and simple, well-engineered mechanicals. Weaknesses that tend to emerge over time are primarily cosmetic and related to wear and tear of components, such as rust formation, suspension wear, and aging seals or hoses, rather than fundamental engine or transmission failures. With diligent upkeep, including regular oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing minor issues promptly, the Tercel can remain a reliable mode of transportation for decades.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1987 Toyota Tercel was designed in an era where technology in entry-level vehicles was rudimentary by today's standards. As such, its built-in tech and entertainment features were focused on essential functionality.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of a basic AM/FM radio. Higher trims, like the SR5, might have offered a cassette tape player, often with two speakers. Optional upgrades could include a more sophisticated stereo system with more powerful speakers. Features like CD players or digital displays were non-existent.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technology as we know it today was not present in the 1987 Tercel. Features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, or advanced cruise control were not offered. The closest it came to assistance was the optional power steering, which made maneuvering easier, especially at low speeds.
Safety Features: Safety features were also basic. Standard safety equipment included seat belts (lap belts for the rear middle seat and three-point belts for outboard passengers), crumple zones designed into the body structure, and side-impact door beams. Some models might have offered optional rear-seat headrests for improved occupant protection. An audible seatbelt reminder system was also standard.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1987 Toyota Tercel are not readily available in a format comparable to modern NHTSA or IIHS tests. However, subcompact cars of this era generally performed moderately in frontal impacts. The focus of safety engineering at the time was on passive safety systems and basic structural integrity rather than the comprehensive suite of active and passive safety technologies found in vehicles today. Given its simple construction, it's reasonable to assume it would perform adequately in low-speed impacts but would offer limited protection in severe high-speed collisions compared to contemporary vehicles.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of a basic AM/FM radio. Higher trims, like the SR5, might have offered a cassette tape player, often with two speakers. Optional upgrades could include a more sophisticated stereo system with more powerful speakers. Features like CD players or digital displays were non-existent.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technology as we know it today was not present in the 1987 Tercel. Features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, or advanced cruise control were not offered. The closest it came to assistance was the optional power steering, which made maneuvering easier, especially at low speeds.
Safety Features: Safety features were also basic. Standard safety equipment included seat belts (lap belts for the rear middle seat and three-point belts for outboard passengers), crumple zones designed into the body structure, and side-impact door beams. Some models might have offered optional rear-seat headrests for improved occupant protection. An audible seatbelt reminder system was also standard.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1987 Toyota Tercel are not readily available in a format comparable to modern NHTSA or IIHS tests. However, subcompact cars of this era generally performed moderately in frontal impacts. The focus of safety engineering at the time was on passive safety systems and basic structural integrity rather than the comprehensive suite of active and passive safety technologies found in vehicles today. Given its simple construction, it's reasonable to assume it would perform adequately in low-speed impacts but would offer limited protection in severe high-speed collisions compared to contemporary vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1987 Toyota Tercel Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1987 Toyota Tercel typically retailed between $6,000 and $9,000, depending on the trim level and optional equipment. As a new car, it offered excellent value for money, positioned as an affordable and dependable transportation solution. Today, the used market prices for a 1987 Tercel vary significantly. Well-maintained, low-mileage examples, especially those with desirable trims or in excellent original condition, can fetch anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 or even more for collector-quality cars. However, most common examples, showing signs of age and wear, can be found for $1,000 to $3,000. Depreciation on the Tercel was fairly typical for its class initially, but its legendary reliability and the growing appreciation for simple, well-built cars mean that well-preserved examples have held their value remarkably well compared to many contemporaries. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, rust presence, overall condition, maintenance history, and originality.
1987 Toyota Tercel Cost of Ownership
The 1987 Toyota Tercel is exceptionally economical to own. Insurance premiums are typically very low due to its age, safety profile (for its time), and modest market value. Fuel costs are minimal, thanks to its excellent MPG ratings. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is inexpensive. Repairs, while occasionally needed for aging parts, are generally affordable due to the vehicle's mechanical simplicity and widespread parts availability. Long-term ownership costs are among the lowest in the automotive world, making the Tercel a highly economical choice for budget-conscious individuals.
1987 Toyota Tercel Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1987 Toyota Tercel Insurance
Insurance for a 1987 Toyota Tercel is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1987 Toyota Tercel Compare to Other Wagon?
The 1987 Toyota Tercel competed in the fiercely contested subcompact segment against rivals like the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Cavalier.
Performance: The Tercel's 1.5-liter engine, producing around 70-78 horsepower, was focused on efficiency rather than speed. Rivals like the Honda Civic might have offered slightly more engaging handling and a bit more pep, especially in their sportier trims. The Ford Escort and Chevy Cavalier, while sometimes offering more power, often lagged behind in refinement and fuel economy.
Features: In its base DLX trim, the Tercel offered basic necessities. The SR5 trim provided a few more creature comforts, but it generally fell short of some rivals that offered more advanced optional features, such as power windows or more sophisticated audio systems, even in their mid-range trims. However, the Tercel's straightforward interior design was appreciated for its ease of use.
Reliability: This is where the 1987 Tercel truly excelled and outperformed most of its contemporaries. Toyota's reputation for bulletproof reliability was well-earned, and the Tercel was a prime example. While competitors like the Honda Civic also boasted strong reliability, the Tercel often had an edge in overall durability and lower long-term repair costs, especially as they aged. The Ford Escort and Chevrolet Cavalier were notorious for being less reliable and more prone to significant mechanical issues.
Price: The Tercel was competitively priced, often slotting into the lower to mid-range of the subcompact segment. Its value proposition was its combination of affordability, excellent fuel economy, and unparalleled reliability, which translated to lower total cost of ownership.
Recommendations:
Similar Alternatives: If you're seeking similar reliability and efficiency, the 1987 Honda Civic is a strong contender. It offers comparable fuel economy and reliability, often with slightly sportier driving dynamics. The 1987 Nissan Sentra also presented a good balance of economy and reliability, though perhaps not quite reaching the legendary status of the Tercel or Civic.
Potentially Better Alternatives: If long-term dependability is the absolute priority, sticking with the Tercel or a comparable Civic is wise. If slightly more modern features or a bit more performance were desired, one might look at slightly larger compact cars from the era, but these would likely come with a price premium and potentially lower fuel economy. For a budget-conscious buyer focused purely on transport, the Tercel remains an excellent choice, especially when compared to its less reliable American counterparts like the Ford Escort or Chevy Cavalier.
Performance: The Tercel's 1.5-liter engine, producing around 70-78 horsepower, was focused on efficiency rather than speed. Rivals like the Honda Civic might have offered slightly more engaging handling and a bit more pep, especially in their sportier trims. The Ford Escort and Chevy Cavalier, while sometimes offering more power, often lagged behind in refinement and fuel economy.
Features: In its base DLX trim, the Tercel offered basic necessities. The SR5 trim provided a few more creature comforts, but it generally fell short of some rivals that offered more advanced optional features, such as power windows or more sophisticated audio systems, even in their mid-range trims. However, the Tercel's straightforward interior design was appreciated for its ease of use.
Reliability: This is where the 1987 Tercel truly excelled and outperformed most of its contemporaries. Toyota's reputation for bulletproof reliability was well-earned, and the Tercel was a prime example. While competitors like the Honda Civic also boasted strong reliability, the Tercel often had an edge in overall durability and lower long-term repair costs, especially as they aged. The Ford Escort and Chevrolet Cavalier were notorious for being less reliable and more prone to significant mechanical issues.
Price: The Tercel was competitively priced, often slotting into the lower to mid-range of the subcompact segment. Its value proposition was its combination of affordability, excellent fuel economy, and unparalleled reliability, which translated to lower total cost of ownership.
Recommendations:
Similar Alternatives: If you're seeking similar reliability and efficiency, the 1987 Honda Civic is a strong contender. It offers comparable fuel economy and reliability, often with slightly sportier driving dynamics. The 1987 Nissan Sentra also presented a good balance of economy and reliability, though perhaps not quite reaching the legendary status of the Tercel or Civic.
Potentially Better Alternatives: If long-term dependability is the absolute priority, sticking with the Tercel or a comparable Civic is wise. If slightly more modern features or a bit more performance were desired, one might look at slightly larger compact cars from the era, but these would likely come with a price premium and potentially lower fuel economy. For a budget-conscious buyer focused purely on transport, the Tercel remains an excellent choice, especially when compared to its less reliable American counterparts like the Ford Escort or Chevy Cavalier.
Final Verdict: Is the 1987 Toyota Tercel a Good Wagon?
The 1987 Toyota Tercel is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or first-time car buyers prioritizing absolute reliability and low running costs over performance or luxury. It's perfect for those seeking a dependable daily commuter or a secondary vehicle for errands. It is absolutely worth buying, especially in the used market, provided it has been reasonably well-maintained and has minimal rust. Opting for a manual transmission often guarantees better longevity and fewer potential headaches than an automatic. While finding one in pristine condition is rare, a solid, rust-free example with a documented maintenance history represents an excellent value proposition. Focus on well-preserved DLX or SR5 trims for the best balance of economy and basic amenities. It is not a vehicle for performance enthusiasts or those seeking advanced technology.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.